Brave Noises: Journal of a First-year College President

Every wonder what it’s like to be a college president? Described as one of the toughest jobs in America, Roger Martin, former Harvard dean, writes about the triumphs and disappointments, defeats and victories of his first year as the president of a small liberal arts college in the Northeast. He deals with tight budgets, challenging enrollments, a restive faculty and staff, and a spirited student body all while juggling the responsibilities of home and family. We receive added insight from Susan Martin who, after a successful professional career, takes on the ill-defined responsibilities of president’s spouse. The book is simultaneously serious and funny and gives the reader a feeling for what it takes to manage a complex institution of higher education. For those seeking to be college presidents themselves, the book provides a useful appendix on what to ask for when finally hired and negotiating a contract.